Photo by Glenn Backes. A protest sign from the March 5th day of action in Sacramento.
Dear California Students: The Governor and State Legislature thank you for your support for one of the largest prison systems in the world.

On January 27, 2012 I got off work and drove like a maniac to Laney College where I ran my out-of-shape self from the parking lot all the way to the B building room 247. I tumbled into that classroom completely out of breath with beads of salty liquids dripping and shamelessly proud. I would be the newest member of this beautiful class. I could already blissfully taste the enlightenment.

I have heard many people refer to the current times that we’re living in as a convergence of crisis. I would like to re-think this moment in our country as a convergence of multiple opportunities. This is an opportunity to reframe our economy as one that focuses on creating careers as opposed to jobs. An opportunity to create an economy that cares for each person's well-being, and strives to mee

2011 was a tough year for many of us as families struggled to make ends meet and violence plagued our streets. In 2012, we have a real opportunity to bring jobs that allow us to stay in our homes, provide for our families, and build a healthy and peaceful Oakland. Can you join us this Tuesday to meet with City Council and make sure that this opportunity doesn't pass Oakland by?